Baisi Lantern Festival Illuminates Traditional Chinese Village

<article><section data-type="rtext">On February 10th, as night fell,Central China’s Baisi Village was adorned with bright red lanterns, creating a festive atmosphere. Villagers, dressed in vibrant red clothes and holding lanterns and torches, formed a procession that marched through the streets and alleys of the village. Gathering around the bonfire, they made their New Year's wishes with sincerity. <img data-alt="" src="//img.huanqiucdn.cn/dp/api/files/imageDir/8249e1f40972d03f6cd704a4a24a3d48u1.png?imageView2/2/w/1260" />Baisi Village, located in Xunxian County, Henan Province, China, hosted the Lantern Festival as part of the 17th Central Plains(Hebi) Folklore Culture Festival. With a history of over 2,000 years, the festival attracted thousands of domestic and international visitors. They gathered to share the joy of the celebration, captivated by its unique historical charm and rich local flavor. Every year on the 13th day of the first lunar month, as night falls, villagers in Baisi Village light fires and parade through the streets to bless their families. This tradition serves two main purposes: to pray for the safety and well-being of family members and to hope for a prosperous year ahead. As a significant local festival, it not only carries deep cultural roots but also remains a vital way for villagers to pray for blessings and celebrate the New Year. <img data-alt="" src="//img.huanqiucdn.cn/dp/api/files/imageDir/6b48c2f02a3bb46358d6ec8633c8e1d0u1.png?imageView2/2/w/1260" />The Baisi Lantern Festival also features a variety of vibrant cultural performances. Dance troupes and performing arts teams from neighboring villages take to the stage, creating a lively atmosphere. The sounds of powerful drums and crisp cymbals fill the air as villagers, dressed in festive attire, sing and dance to express their love for life and pursuit of happiness. The performance has even attracted young people from abroad to join in , sharing  the joy of the festival. <img data-alt="" src="//img.huanqiucdn.cn/dp/api/files/imageDir/b0876408503f0eedaed87dd70295fab7u1.png?imageView2/2/w/1260" />“It’s very lively here. The people are warm and friendly. I really like Chinese drumming. I’m having a wonderful time here! It shows how locals treasure and preserve their traditional culture.” Hanieh Mirdamadi from Iran said. As one of China’s traditional villages, Baisi Village boasts a large cluster of well-preserved ancient residences, numerous historical relics, and a wealth of intangible cultural heritage. Currently, it retains practices include shadow puppetry, lion dance, etc. </section></article>